The Four Seasons of Nishinoshima

Nishinoshima is Colourful

Nishinoshima Island, the second largestisland of the Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture, is surrounded by crystal clearwater. Other than the blue sea and green mountains, a black and dark red stripedcliff and a beach with white sand can also be found. When spring arrives,Nishinoshima is dotted with clusters of cherry blossoms. The cliff dons itsgolden yellow outfit in autumn, and the island sometimes turn white duringwinter.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the fourseasons of Nishinoshima.

• Table of Contents
• Spring (March – May)
• Summer (June – August)
• Autumn (September – November)
• Winter (December – February)
• Best Time to Visit Nishinoshima: late March – end of October
• What to Wear/Bring:

Spring (March – May)

Daylight increases in March, and although it starts to get warmer during the day, it can still be quite chilly in early spring. Temperatures drop in the evening and early hours, so be prepared for the temperature swing. From April, it starts to get warmer and in late-May, sometimes it can feel like summer is already here.

Average temperature in 2023:
March:   10.1℃/50.18℉
April:      13.9℃/57.02℉
May:       17.7℃/63.86℉

*The observation station for the Dōzen Islands is in Ama Town. 
Source：Japan MeteorologicalAgency(this information is available in Japanese only)

One of Our Spring Delights: Cherry Blossom Viewing at Yurahime Shrine

Depending on the year, the cherry blossomviewing season in Nishinoshima changes slightly, but generally it is betweenmid- to late March and early April. On either side of the worship hall ofYurahime Shrine, there are two tall cherry trees. When the trees are in fullbloom, if you stand in front of the hall and look up, you can see the sky dyedpink by the beautiful blossoms.

Kuniga Biraki Festa is a series of eventsheld in spring, which marks the start of the tourism season in Nishinoshima.Cherry blossom light up event is one of the highlights of the Festa. How aboutenjoying the beautifully illuminated cherry blossoms at night on the island?

*Yurahime Shrine is located in a small-sized residentialarea. Please be considerate of the local community and other visitors whileenjoying the experience.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is a peak season for sightseeing inNishinoshima. The clear blue sea, energetic festivals and firework displaysthat light up the night sky are extremely captivating. In addition to seakayaking and swimming, hopping on a sightseeing boat and enjoying the sceneryof Kuniga Coast are great ways to beat the summer heat. The cool sea breeze isreally refreshing!

*A special note on Obon: Obon festival is one ofJapan’s most important annual festivals, and families gather to honour thespirits of deceased ancestors. Obon on the Oki Islands is from 13Augustto 16 August, and since many return to their hometowns during this period, theferries get very crowded between 10 August and 17 August. Some accommodationfacilities close during this period, too. So, if you are planning to travel toNishinoshima during the week of Obon, it is recommended to book your lodgingsas early as possible.

The sending of Shāra-bune Spirit Boats takesplace every year in Nishinoshina, on the morning of 16 August. The summer eventis carried out in multiple locations on the island, as families gather to sendoff the spirits of their ancestors. If you have the opportunity to visitNishinoshima during Obon, join the locals and observe the occasion.

Average temperature in 2023:
June:     22.3℃/72.14℉
July:       26.6℃/79.88℉
August:  28.8℃/83.84℉

*The observation station for the Dōzen Islands is in Ama Town. 
Source：Japan Meteorological Agency (this information is available in Japanese only)

One of Our Summer Delights: Sazae Curry with Rice

Summer on the island is not completewithout indulging in sazae curry. Grown in the nutrient-rich waters surroundingNishinoshima, the locally caught sazae turban shells have a springy texture andare delicately sweet. Sazae’s subtle sweetness pairs well with rice and mildJapanese curry; it will delight you with every bite.

At the restaurants on the island, sazae curry isonly available during the summer months. Don’t miss it while you’re here!

Autumn (September – November)

Recently, even though it is already September, it can still feel like midsummer during the day, but it is less humid. If you go to Kuniga Coast, you can observe plants that grow in the unique ecosystem of the Oki Islands, such as Oki Chrysanthemum and Tōteiran Speedwell. The small yellow flowers blooming on the side of the road, and the deep bluish-purple flowers that can be seen on the slopes on the way to Matengai Cliff, tell us that autumn is already here. Surrounded by autumn colours and accompanied by the cool, crisp wind, your hike is sure going to be a memorable one.

Average temperature in 2023:
September:    24.6℃/76.28℉
October:         17.3℃/63.14℉
November:     13.8℃/56.84℉

 *The observation station for the Dōzen Islands is in Ama Town. 
Source：Japan Meteorological Agency (this information is available in Japanese only)

One of Our Seasonal Delights: Cycling Under the Autumn Sky

It may still be hot during the day, but itis often much cooler at night. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Daisen, inTottori Prefecture, from Matengai Cliff. The Akao and Onimai Skyline are two ofthe scenic routes in Nishinoshima, and nothing beats a scenic bicycle ridethere. Pedalling up the steep slopes is easy-peasy when you have the assistanceof a powerful e-bike!

Winter (December – February)

Once the calendar turns to December, the atmosphere on the island changes drastically. It gets cloudier, windier and much colder. Located in the Sea of Japan, the Oki Islands are easily affected by the strong north-westerly winds from the continent, which cause rough seas and high winds. It is not unusual for ferry crossings to be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. Sometimes, Nishinoshima can also be seen covered in snow for a longer period, but most of the time, it doesn’t stick around.

Average temperature in 2023:
December:   8.8℃/47.84℉
January:       5.6℃/42.08℉
February:     5.7℃/42.26℉

*The observation station for the Dōzen Islands is in Ama Town. 
Source：Japan Meteorological Agency (this information is available in Japanese only)

Winter is Windy in Nishinoshima:

Other than the occasional cancellation of ferry crossings due to weather conditions, the fast ferry service is suspended throughout the winter months. Fast Ferry Rainbow Jet takes a long winter break from December to the end of February for her periodical maintenance. In addition to fewer ferry crossings to Nishinoshima, some accommodation facilities and activity providers suspend their operations. If you are planning to come visit us during winter, book early and allow for some wiggle room in your schedule.

Best Time to Visit Nishinoshima: late March – end of October

The best time to visit Nishinoshima is whenit is warm, pleasant and enjoyable outside. So, late March to the end ofOctober is the time!

Now, let’s take a look at recommended clothingitems to bring for your island holiday.

What to Wear/Bring:

Spring: Long-sleeved t-shirts or hikingshirts, with a windbreaker jacket. A fleece jacket will keep you warm duringthe chilly sunset hours.

Summer: Short-sleeved t-shirts made frombreathable fabrics are ideal for the season. If you are planning to go to thebeach or have signed up for a sea kayaking adventure, bring your swimsuit andrash guard as they are not available at the shops on the island. Make sure towear sun protection and don’t forget to bring your rain gear!

Autumn: A lightweight windbreaker jacket isa must-have on your packing list.

Hiking: Since the Kuniga Coast Hiking Trail islocated inside a pasture, we recommend wearing trousers and closed-toe shoes,or hiking shoes, as a year-round measure to prevent tick bites.

You’re now ready to pack for your exciting island holiday in Nishinoshima. See you soon!